The reason why this story has legs, however, is because of Broxton's spectacular second-half collapse last year, when he did lose the job. Good in the early going, he got worked hard by Joe Torre in a short stretch at the end of June, working four times in five days, capped by his implosion on national TV against the Yankees on June 27. After that, he lost two or three ticks on his fastball, walked 23 batters in 29 2/3 IP, and posted a 7.58 ERA.

The import of this situation is "what it says about ... the working relationship between Colletti and Mattingly". That could become a moot point if the Dodgers' new owner (hopefully to be found by 2012) sends both to the curb.

Jon Morosi says the Pirates have claimed former Dodger outfielder Xavier Paul on waivers. He was designated for assignment on Monday to make room for Padilla.